The African Development Bank (AfDB) has elected Dr. Sidi Ould Tah of Mauritania as its ninth president, marking a significant leadership transition for the continent’s premier development finance institution. The election took place during the AfDB’s annual meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on May 29, 2025. Dr. Tah secured 76.18% of the vote in the third round, surpassing other candidates, including Zambia’s Samuel Maimbo and Senegal’s Amadou Hott.
Dr. Tah brings over 35 years of experience in African and international finance. He served as president of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) from 2015 to 2025, where he led a transformation that quadrupled the bank’s balance sheet and secured a AAA rating . Prior to that, he held senior government roles in Mauritania, including Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, and served as an economic advisor to the president
Dr. Tah assumes leadership at a critical time. The AfDB faces significant challenges, including a $555 million funding cut from the U.S. under the Trump administration . Additionally, the bank estimates that Africa needs over $400 billion annually to fund its structural transformation and is targeting $25 billion in its current replenishment round . Dr. Tah is expected to navigate debt pressures, climate financing needs, geopolitical risks, and limited fiscal space across African nations.
Dr. Tah has expressed readiness to tackle these challenges head-on. Upon his election, he stated, “Let’s go to work now, I’m ready!” . He plans to enhance collaboration with Gulf states to strengthen infrastructure development across the continent . His leadership is seen as pivotal in steering the AfDB through a period of rising pressure on African economies and tightening global development finance.
Dr. Tah will officially assume office on September 1, 2025, succeeding Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina, who is stepping down after two terms . His appointment is a significant moment for the AfDB and the continent, as Africa seeks to accelerate its development agenda amid global economic uncertainties.